The Electric Company of Villa Clara announced on Sunday the successful relocation and physical setup of a 25 MVA (megavolt-amperes) transformer for the Santo Domingo 110 kV substation. This development, although crucial, was described by the technical team as a complex and time-consuming endeavor: "It won't be easy or quick, but we've begun."
Despite facing adverse weather conditions—ranging from intense sunshine to rainfall—and numerous logistical challenges, the operation was executed with the assistance of specialized personnel, heavy transport vehicles, and stringent safety protocols.
Although the transformer is now in place, significant tasks remain such as connection, testing, adjustments, and technical verifications before it can be energized and fully operational.
The necessity for this installation dates back to July 8, 2025, when a lightning strike damaged the existing 25 MVA transformer at the same substation, leading to prolonged power outages in large areas of the municipality. A temporary solution involved a 33,000-volt connection from Santa Clara, which only restored power to select areas such as Washington, Manacas, Bermejal, 26 de Julio, Criolla, and Las Casimbas, while Santo Domingo, Mordazo, Casacajal, Balilño, Rodrigo, and Amaro remained without electricity.
Over a year later, the situation in the municipality remained dire. In June 2026, a local resident publicly denounced the complete neglect of Santo Domingo, highlighting the lack of stable electricity, internet, water, and a functional banking system. "Authorities visit, take notes, pose in meetings… but nothing changes," she lamented. She also mentioned that the municipality has two solar parks not operating at full capacity, resulting in daily solar generation losses.
Cuba's Widespread Electrical Crisis
Santo Domingo's plight is indicative of the broader structural electricity crisis afflicting Cuba. On Saturday, the nation's power generation capacity stood at a mere 1,250 MW against a projected demand of 2,900 MW, leading to a peak-hour shortfall of 1,680 MW. The National Electric System has experienced eight total failures throughout 2026.
The situation is exacerbated by a shortage of transformers. According to Rubén Campos Olmos, the general director of the Electric Union, transformers over 75 kVA are not manufactured in Cuba and must be repaired or imported, a challenging task given the severe resource constraints.
In Mayarí, Holguín, highlighting the nationwide scope of the issue, nine transformers remained out of service as of this week, with some sidelined for over 60 days without a resolution in sight. The eastern province reported 252 damaged transformers in the first half of the year, marking a 35% increase compared to the same period in 2025.
The new transformer in Santo Domingo is a welcome, yet isolated, improvement that falls short of providing comprehensive solutions to Cuba's severe energy crisis.
Understanding Cuba's Energy Crisis
What is the significance of the new transformer installation in Santo Domingo?
The installation of a new 25 MVA transformer is significant as it addresses power outages in Santo Domingo caused by a lightning strike in 2025. However, it is only a temporary improvement and not a permanent solution to the ongoing energy crisis in Cuba.
How does the transformer shortage impact Cuba's energy crisis?
The shortage of transformers intensifies Cuba's energy crisis because essential equipment that exceeds 75 kVA must be repaired or imported, a process hindered by severe resource limitations. This leads to prolonged outages and inadequate power supply across the country.
What broader issues does the Santo Domingo situation reflect about Cuba's energy infrastructure?
The situation in Santo Domingo highlights the nationwide structural issues within Cuba's energy infrastructure, including insufficient power generation, outdated equipment, and inefficiencies in maintenance and resource allocation.